What Should Your 6-Month-Old Eat? We’ve Got the Answers.

It’s so exciting when your baby becomes curious about food. She grabs at your plate and silverware—making it nearly impossible for you to eat your own meal! Typically, this behavior begins around the six-month mark. And at this point, it’s time for you to start experimenting with solid foods.

When should I start feeding my baby solid foods?

Before you begin solid foods, ensure that your baby can hold his head up and sit upright in a high chair. Always supervise your baby during mealtimes.

In addition to breast milk and formula, you can begin offering your baby many different foods as you start sharing mealtime together.

Find more info on when you should start with solid food here.

What should my 6-month-old eat?

Some of the first foods offered to babies are brown rice cereal and oatmeal. These bland options allow your baby to practice using a spoon and discover how her tongue works.

Start by introducing dry cereal or grain puffs during mealtime, and let your baby feed herself.

Once your baby is comfortable with cereal, offer:

• Cheese
• Beans
• Muffins
• Pureed or strained fruits (banana, pears, applesauce, peaches, avocado)
• Pureed or strained vegetables (well-cooked carrots, squash, sweet potato)
• Pureed protein (chicken, pork, beef, tofu or fish)
• Small amounts of unsweetened yogurt (Keep in mind your baby should not have cow’s milk until he is at least one year old.)
• Scrambled eggs (Here’s why eggs are a good option!)
• Pasta

Learn more about the foods you should (and shouldn’t!) start your baby on.

How much should my baby be eating?

Babies around six months of age will eat approximately 6-12 ounces of pureed baby food per day. (Here’s how to make baby food at home). But the exact amount depends on your child.

Bonus: 6-month baby food meal plan

No, meal planning isn’t just for adults. We’ve laid out a super simple meal plan for you to follow with your baby.

You’ll want to continue offering your baby breast milk or formula as needed, then start to add in solid foods at breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Breakfast: Rice cereal or oatmeal
• Lunch: Pureed fruits and/or veggies
• Dinner: Pureed meats and veggies

Psst! You should avoid these foods when breastfeeding.